Risks of Vitrectomy Surgery for a Macular Hole

A vitrectomy is the surgical removal of the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the center of the eye, followed by an insertion of air and gas to the hole. The procedure is often done to repair holes that form in the macula, an area of the retina, due to the natural aging of the eye. Like most surgeries, some risks are associated with the vitrectomy.

Cataracts

• The development of cataracts, the condition in which vision becomes hazy and blurred, is a common risk associated with the vitrectomy procedure. Although cataracts commonly develop with age, the condition tends to develop more quickly after a vitrectomy.

Infection

• As with most surgeries, infection is one of the most common complications, and while the effects can be minor, they can sometimes lead to more serious conditions. Infection that occurs in the eye after a vitrectomy is called endophthalmitis and can sometimes lead to blindness. According to VitreoRetinal Surgery, PA, this infection occurs in one out of every 1,000 cases.

Retinal Detachment

• Although the retina can become detached spontaneously, any surgery involving the eyeball increases the risk of detachment. The detachment can occur relatively soon after treatment or even up to several months or even years after the surgery has been completed.

Eye Damage

• Traveling by plane must be avoided for several months after the vitrectomy is completed or until the doctor says it is O.K. If the hole has not completely healed and the gas is still present in the hole, the pressure change in the airplane can cause severe damage to the eye.

Partial Recovery

• While it is not considered a risk or complication of surgery, partial recovery of vision can be a problem for some patients. After surgery, patients are to remain in a face-down position for specified amount of time. If the patient is not able to follow through with the entire specified time, total recovery of vision may not be achieved.